Rocket Espresso Giotto Cronometro R Espresso Machine

Rocket Espresso Giotto Cronometro R Overview

The Cronometro R is a heat-exchange espresso machine and features a near-silent rotary pump, and can be plumbed directly into a water line to bypass the reservoir and cut out all those trips to the sink. The Cronometro version of the Giotto features a hidden shot timer just above the power switch with a digital readout that appears when the pump is activated and disappears when it's off, blending in with the stainless steel housing.

Features and Performance

Rocket was one of the first manufacturers to incorporate a PID into their heat exchangers, though it has now become an industry standard on high-end HXs, and it just goes to show their commitment to innovation. The PID is hidden behind the drip tray so as not to distract from the machine’s intricate design, and it can be adjusted across four settings to accommodate different roast styles.

They’re also one of only a handful of manufacturers to make adjustments to the E61 group, which circulates water from the boiler through the group to aid in temperature stability and is a staple on most prosumer machines. Rocket integrated a dual pre-infusion system, consisting of a mechanical working piston which works progressively within a static pre-infusion chamber for fully saturated, crema-rich extractions.

The PID controller keeps temperature stable to the degree, and, once combined with this thoughtfully redesigned group, the Giotto Cronometro R is equipped to deliver consistent shots. Though it’s a small change, we’re a big fan of the blackened gauges on the Cronometro R version, and think it adds to our impression that this is a lean, mean, brewing machine.

Internally, similar to the Cronometro V, the Giotto Cronometro R houses a large 1.8 L copper boiler and 1200 watt heating element, and integrated sensors monitor the boiler and reservoir levels for low volumes, alerting you and, if necessary, shutting off automatically so as not to let the boiler run dry. Of course, plumbing the machine in eliminates this problem altogether, and allows you to use an inline filtration system to purify water to aid in espresso taste and machine longevity. The Cronometro R also features the same height adjustable feet and no-burn steam wands as it’s counterpart.

Why You Should Get It

One of our favorite things about the Rocket machines are the accessories. They include a full color training guide complete with a USB thumb drive with extra content. Plus, rather than include a chintzy plastic tamper, Rocket throws in a branded metal tamper so you’re always ready to brew like a pro. The Giotto is, in a word, gorgeous. It’s a stand out addition to any home barista’s set up, and would be for years. If you prefer a more traditional look, the Mozzafiato Cronometro R has all the same great features in a flat body style; for greater capacity and power, take a step up to the dual boiler R58.